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LaDue CA, Hunt KE, Kiso WK, Freeman EW. Hormonal variation and temporal dynamics of musth in Asian elephants ( Elephas maximus) are associated with age, body condition and the social environment. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coad019. [PMID: 38026805 PMCID: PMC10660383 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The sustainability of endangered Asian elephants in human care is threatened in part by low breeding success and concerns over individual animal wellbeing. Male elephants have received less research attention compared to females, yet males deserve special consideration due to their unique reproductive biology (particularly the sexual state of "musth") and the complex interaction of physiological, environmental, and social pressures they face. We measured fecal androgen metabolites (FAMs), fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGMs), and fecal triiodothyronine metabolites (FT3s) collected weekly over approximately 12 months from 26 male Asian elephants housed in zoos across the US, hypothesizing that FAM, FGM, and FT3 concentrations would be associated with temporal correlates of musth and would vary further with intrinsic (musth status, age, body condition) and extrinsic (social environment) factors. The duration of each musth episode was positively associated with exposure to male conspecifics and negatively associated with body condition. Further, elevated FAM concentrations were associated with social exposure, age, and body condition, and FGM concentrations also varied with age and body condition. FT3 concentrations were not associated with any factor we measured. We also identified periods of lower FAM concentration than confirmed musth episodes (but still higher than baseline FAM concentrations) that we termed "elevated FAM episodes." The durations of these episodes were negatively correlated with exposure to other male elephants. Together, these results provide evidence that hormone profiles (including those that are predicted to change around musth) vary significantly between male Asian elephants in a way that may be attributed to intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Studies like these serve to enhance the sustainability of ex-situ populations by providing wildlife managers with information to enhance the health, welfare, and reproduction of threatened species like Asian elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chase A LaDue
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, 4400 University Drive, MSN 5F2, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, 2000 Remington Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73111, USA
| | - Kathleen E Hunt
- Department of Biology, George Mason University, 10900 University Boulevard, Manassas, VA 20110, USA
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Wendy K Kiso
- White Oak Conservation Foundation, 581705 White Oak Road, Yulee, FL 32097, USA
- Colossal Biosciences, 3309 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75226, USA
| | - Elizabeth W Freeman
- School of Integrative Studies, 4400 University Drive, MSN 5D3, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
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Yang Y, Tummaruk P, Angkawanish T, Langkaphin W, Chatdarong K. Seasonal Effects on Body Condition and Characteristics of the Estrous Cycle in Captive Asian Elephants ( Elephas maximus) in Thailand: A Retrospective Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13071133. [PMID: 37048389 PMCID: PMC10093222 DOI: 10.3390/ani13071133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of season on the body condition score (BCS), the characteristics of the estrous cycle (luteal phase [LPL], follicular phase [FPL], estrous cycle [ECL] lengths, and the start of the luteal phase [SLP] and follicular phase [SFP]), and progesterone levels (baseline and peak) of eight captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) in Thailand. From 2014 to 2019, blood samples were collected weekly for serum progesterone enzyme immunoassays (EIAs). Estrous cycles (n = 70), including the luteal and follicular phases, and BCS (n = 70) were recorded. Based on the BCS, the LPL, FPL, and ECL were assigned to the following two groups: normal (BCS = 3.0-4.0, n = 38) and overweight (BCS = 4.5-5.0, n = 32). The findings demonstrated that there was no difference in LPL between the groups. However, in the normal group, the ECL was one week longer (14.9 ± 1.7 vs. 13.9 ± 1.7 weeks; p < 0.05), and the FPL also tended to be one week longer (7.2 ± 1.7 vs. 6.4 ± 1.5 weeks; p = 0.06) than in the overweight group. The mean progesterone level during the rainy, hot, and cool seasons was not statistically different. Based on the yearly averaged BCS from three seasons, the baseline and peak levels of progesterone were classified into the normal (n = 16) and overweight (n = 12) groups. Females with a normal BCS tended to exhibit higher progesterone peak levels (p = 0.08). The majority of peaks appeared during the rainy season (53.57%). The BCS was highest during the hot (4.47) and rainy (4.38) seasons, but not during the cool (4.12) season. The LPL, FPL, and ECL were not affected by the season in which the luteal phase occurred. On the other hand, the rainy season had a significant effect on the SFP, resulting in a longer LPL (p < 0.05) and ECL (p = 0.01); both were the longest during the rainy season. In conclusion, the effects of season on BCS may be related to characteristics of the estrous cycle and peak progesterone levels. Ultimately, these findings provide ground knowledge to assist elephant managers and owners in planning breeding activities using seasonal effects and BCS measurements in tropical climates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Yang
- Research Unit of Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Padet Tummaruk
- Research Unit of Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Taweepoke Angkawanish
- The Thai Elephant Conservation Center, National Elephant Institute of Thailand, The Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Warangkhana Langkaphin
- The Thai Elephant Conservation Center, National Elephant Institute of Thailand, The Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Research Unit of Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Chusyd DE, Nagy TR, Golzarri-Arroyo L, Dickinson SL, Speakman JR, Hambly C, Johnson MS, Allison DB, Brown JL. Adiposity, reproductive and metabolic health, and activity levels in zoo Asian elephant ( Elephas maximus). J Exp Biol 2021; 224:224/2/jeb219543. [PMID: 33500325 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.219543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Many captive Asian elephant populations are not self-sustaining, possibly due in part to obesity-related health and reproductive issues. This study investigated relationships between estimated body composition and metabolic function, inflammatory markers, ovarian activity (females only) and physical activity levels in 44 Asian elephants (n=35 females, n=9 males). Deuterium dilution was used to measure total body water from which fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) could be derived to estimate body composition. Serum was analyzed for progestagens and estradiol (females only), deuterium, glucose, insulin and amyloid A. Physical activity was assessed by an accelerometer placed on the elephant's front leg for at least 2 days. Relative fat mass (RFM) - the amount of fat relative to body mass - was calculated to take differences in body size between elephants into consideration. Body fat percentage ranged from 2.01% to 24.59%. Male elephants were heavier (P=0.043), with more FFM (P=0.049), but not FM (P>0.999), than females. For all elephants, estimated RFM (r=0.45, P=0.004) was positively correlated with insulin. Distance walked was negatively correlated with age (r=-0.46, P=0.007). When adjusted for FFM and age (P<0.001), non-cycling females had less fat compared with cycling females, such that for every 100 kg increase in FM, the odds of cycling were 3 times higher (P<0.001). More work is needed to determine what an unhealthy amount of fat is for elephants; however, our results suggest higher adiposity may contribute to metabolic perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella E Chusyd
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA .,Nutrition Obesity Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Tim R Nagy
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.,Nutrition Obesity Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.,Nathan Shock Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Lilian Golzarri-Arroyo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Stephanie L Dickinson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - John R Speakman
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK.,Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Catherine Hambly
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
| | - Maria S Johnson
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - David B Allison
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Janine L Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
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Toin P, Brown JL, Punyapornwithaya V, Bansiddhi P, Somgird C, Thitaram C. Reproductive performance of captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) in large tourist camps in Thailand. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 222:106606. [PMID: 33007578 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In Thailand, many elephants are used in tourism, with populations sustained by breeding of animals that are in captive habitats. Even though there are programs to promote breeding, there is not success in all camps. In this study, there was summarization of reproductive performance data of 407 elephants (150 males, 257 females) at seven tourist camps based on 4-21 years of breeding records. Age pyramid structures for elephants varied among camps. Reproductive rates averaged 21.6 ± 6.17% and varied among camps (2.8-45.0%). Based on parity, 77.4% of elephants were nulliparous, 8.2% produced one calf, and 14.3% were multiparous, with there being camp differences. There were 1.10 ± 0.46 (range, 0.03-3.55) births per year, with a total of 19.6 ± 9.3 (1-71) calves per camp. Age at first calving was 19.2 ± 1.1 years (range, 8-40 years), mean inter-birth interval was 4.4 ± 0.2 years (range, 1.8-7.9 years), and average gestation length was 653.9 ± 6.9 days (range, 578-743 days). Rates of abortions/stillbirths averaged 12.4% and ranged from 3.5%-66.7%. There were no obvious differences in management (e.g., number of males, estrous detection methods, work activities) that when evaluated explained the range in breeding success, although lack of male interest in females was a common problem. While informative and useful for designing future studies, results of this study indicate there is a lack of precise breeding records that makes it difficult to evaluate effects of management practices on reproductive performance of captive elephants in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patiparn Toin
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Master's Degree Program in Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Janine L Brown
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Veerasak Punyapornwithaya
- Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety Centre for Asia Pacific, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pakkanut Bansiddhi
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Department of Companion Animals and Wildlife Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Chaleamchat Somgird
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Department of Companion Animals and Wildlife Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Chatchote Thitaram
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Department of Companion Animals and Wildlife Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
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UNDERSTANDING PROLACTIN REGULATION AND DETERMINING THE EFFICACY OF CABERGOLINE AND DOMPERIDONE TO MITIGATE PROLACTIN-ASSOCIATED OVARIAN CYCLE PROBLEMS IN ZOO AFRICAN ELEPHANTS ( LOXODONTA AFRICANA ). J Zoo Wildl Med 2020; 51:13-24. [PMID: 32212542 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Perturbations in serum prolactin secretion, both over- and underproduction, are observed in zoo African elephants (Loxodonta africana) that exhibit abnormal ovarian cycles. Similar prolactin problems are associated with infertility in other species. Pituitary prolactin is held under constant inhibition by a hypothalamic-derived neurotransmitter, dopamine; thus, regulation by exogenous treatment with agonists or antagonists may be capable of reinitiating normal ovarian cycles. This study tested the efficacy of oral administration of cabergoline (agonist) and domperidone (antagonist) as possible treatments for hyperprolactinemia or chronic low prolactin, respectively. Hyperprolactinemic (overall mean prolactin, >30 ng/ml), acyclic elephants were administered oral cabergoline (2 mg, n = 4) or placebo (dextrose capsule, n = 4) twice weekly. Overall mean prolactin concentration decreased in treated females compared with controls (32.22 ± 14.75 vs 77.53 ± 0.96 ng/ml; P = 0.01). Interestingly, overall mean progestagen concentrations also increased slightly (P < 0.05) in treated females (0.15 ± 0.01 ng/ml) compared with controls (0.07 ± 0.01 ng/ml), but no reinitation of normal cyclic patterns was observed. Chronic low prolactin (overall mean prolactin, <10 ng/ml), acyclic females were orally administered domperidone (2 g/day, n = 4) or placebo (dextrose capsule, n = 4) for 4 wk, followed by 8 wk of no treatment (four cycles) to simulate the prolactin pattern observed in normal cycling elephants. Overall mean prolactin concentrations increased (P = 0.005) during domperidone treatment (21.77 ± 3.69 ng/ml) compared with controls (5.77 ± 0.46 ng/ml), but progestagen concentrations were unaltered. Prolactin regulation by dopamine was confirmed by expected responses to dopamine agonist and antagonist treatment. Although prolactin concentrations were successfully reduced by cabergoline, and domperidone initiated the expected cyclic prolactin pattern, neither treatment induced normal ovarian activity.
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Edwards KL, Pilgrim M, Brown JL, Walker SL. Irregular ovarian cyclicity is associated with adrenal activity in female eastern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 289:113376. [PMID: 31881202 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
To achieve self-sustaining and genetically diverse populations ex situ, captive breeding programmes must ensure good overall rates of reproduction, and equal contribution across individuals. Previous research in the critically endangered eastern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli) revealed a high incidence of irregular oestrous cyclicity; in particular extended cycle duration among nulliparous females and acyclic periods in parous females that have not bred for several years. Irregular ovarian activity could play a role in reduced reproductive output; however, the mechanisms underlying these anomalies are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to measure faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentrations and variability prior to and during periods of regular and irregular ovarian activity, and determine if adrenal activity influences the occurrence of different cycle types in this species. Faecal samples were collected every other day from parous (N = 6) and nulliparous (N = 12) females at eight European institutions for periods of 9-15 months. Concentration and variability in fGCM were compared between periods of regular and irregular cyclicity and between different cycle types (<20 days, 20-40 days, >40 days, acyclic) using generalized linear mixed models. Concentrations of fGCM were influenced by season and higher during the luteal than the follicular phase of the oestrous cycle. Taking this into account, fGCMs were increased during periods of irregular cyclicity (all types combined and during cycles >40 days in length) compared to 20-40 day cycles. This was predominantly driven by nulliparous females. The variation in fGCM concentration also differed between periods of regular and irregular cyclicity; higher standard deviation in fGCM preceded irregular cycles and >40 day cycles compared to 20-40 day cycles. These results suggest that although fGCM concentrations fluctuate across the oestrous cycle in this species, changes in adrenal activity at specific times could be one factor associated with irregular ovarian activity in the black rhinoceros.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L Edwards
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Chester CH2 1LH, UK; Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK; Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA.
| | - Mark Pilgrim
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Chester CH2 1LH, UK
| | - Janine L Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Susan L Walker
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Chester CH2 1LH, UK
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Brown JL. Update on Comparative Biology of Elephants: Factors Affecting Reproduction, Health and Welfare. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1200:243-273. [PMID: 31471800 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-23633-5_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Asian (Elephas maximus) and African (Loxodonta africana) elephants serve as important keystone, umbrella and flagship species. Despite that, population numbers are declining, due mainly to poaching and habitat destruction. Understanding reproductive mechanisms is vital to effective management, particularly insurance populations in captivity, and to that end, long-term biological databases are key to understanding how intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect reproductive function at individual and population levels. Through decades of hormonal and ultrasonographic monitoring, many unique aspects of zoo elephant reproduction have been identified, including differences in luteal steroidogenic activity, follicular maturation, pituitary gonadotropin secretion, fetal development and reproductive tract anatomy. Reproductive problems also hamper captive propagation efforts, particularly those related to abnormal or lack of ovarian cyclicity. Recent large-scale, multi-institutional studies and use of epidemiological approaches have identified factors important for good welfare and reproduction, which include enrichment, feeding diversity, good elephant-keeper relations, social compatibility, exercise, and not being obese. There are notable differences in reproductive mechanisms between Asian and African elephants, as well as the factors that influence reproduction and welfare, suggesting species-targeted management approaches are needed to maximize fitness. In the first edition, we discussed reproductive function in male and female elephants. Since then, a number of significant advances have been made primarily in female elephants, which will be the focus of this updated review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine L Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, USA.
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Hufenus R, Schiffmann C, Hatt JM, Müller DWH, Lackey LB, Clauss M, Zerbe P. Seasonality of reproduction in Asian elephantsElephas maximusand African elephantsLoxodonta africana: underlying photoperiodic cueing? Mamm Rev 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Hufenus
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Winterthurerstr. 260 8057 Zurich Switzerland
| | - Christian Schiffmann
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Winterthurerstr. 260 8057 Zurich Switzerland
| | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Winterthurerstr. 260 8057 Zurich Switzerland
| | | | - Laurie Bingaman Lackey
- World Association of Zoos and Aquariums; IUCN Conservation Centre; Rue Mauverney 28 1196 Gland Switzerland
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Winterthurerstr. 260 8057 Zurich Switzerland
| | - Philipp Zerbe
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Winterthurerstr. 260 8057 Zurich Switzerland
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Brown JL. Comparative ovarian function and reproductive monitoring of endangered mammals. Theriogenology 2018; 109:2-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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REPRODUCTIVE PARAMETERS AND BIRTH STATISTICS FOR A HERD OF ASIAN ELEPHANTS (ELEPHAS MAXIMUS) IN NORTH AMERICA OVER A 20-YEAR PERIOD. J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:987-996. [DOI: 10.1638/2017-0035.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Morfeld KA, Brown JL. Metabolic health assessment of zoo elephants: Management factors predicting leptin levels and the glucose-to-insulin ratio and their associations with health parameters. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188701. [PMID: 29186207 PMCID: PMC5706714 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Screening for metabolic-related health problems can enhance animal welfare, so the purpose of this study was to conduct the first metabolic health assessment of zoo elephants and use epidemiological methods to determine how factors in the captive environment were associated with metabolic hormone concentrations. In addition, we examined relationships between metabolic status and several fitness parameters: foot health, musculoskeletal health, reproductive cyclicity, and body condition. Two blood samples were collected 2 weeks apart from 87 Asian (Elephas maximus) and 105 African (Loxodonta africana) elephants managed by zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for analysis of serum leptin, insulin, glucose and the glucose-to-insulin ratio (G:I). In females, mean (± SD) leptin concentrations and the G:I were lower (P<0.05) in Asian (3.93 ± 2.21 ng/ml and 110 ± 86 units) compared to African (4.37 ± 2.89 ng/ml and 208 ± 133 units) elephants, respectively. For males, mean leptin and the G:I were 4.99 ± 3.61 ng/ml and 253 ± 181 units for Asian, and 3.72 ± 2.00 ng/ml and 326 ± 231 units for African elephants, respectively, with no differences between species (P>0.05). As mean leptin concentration increased there was an increase in the odds of a female being non-cycling (P = 0.0083). The G:I was associated inversely with body condition (P = 0.0002); as the G:I increased there was a decreased risk of BCS = 4 or 5 as compared to the ideal, or BCS = 3. Neither leptin nor G:I were predictive of foot or musculoskeletal health scores. Factors related to walking and feeding practices were most influential in predicting metabolic status, whereas social and housing factors showed smaller, but significant effects. The metabolic health benefits of walking were detected if the time spent in staff-directed walking was 7 hours or more per week. The most protective feeding practices included implementing a random rather than predictable feeding schedule and limiting the number of methods presentation methods. Results indicate that leptin levels and G:I can be used as predictors of both ovarian cycle function and body condition, and are affected by zoo management in elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari A. Morfeld
- Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Janine L. Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
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12
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Morfeld KA, Brown JL. Ovarian acyclicity in zoo African elephants (Loxodonta africana) is associated with high body condition scores and elevated serum insulin and leptin. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:640-7. [PMID: 25375263 DOI: 10.1071/rd14140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to determine whether excessive body fat and altered metabolic hormone concentrations in the circulation were associated with ovarian acyclicity in the world's largest land mammal, the African elephant. We compared body condition, glucose, insulin and leptin concentrations and the glucose-to-insulin ratio (G:I) between cycling (n=23; normal 14-16 week cycles based on serum progestagens for at least 2 years) and non-cycling (n=23; consistent baseline progestagen concentrations for at least 2 years) females. A validated body condition score (BCS) index (five-point scale; 1=thinnest, 5=fattest) was used to assess the degree of fatness of the study elephants. The mean BCS of non-cycling elephants was higher than that of their cycling counterparts. There were differences in concentrations of serum metabolic biomarkers, with non-cycling elephants in the BCS 5 category having higher leptin and insulin concentrations and a lower G:I ratio than cycling BCS 5 females. Using 'non-cycling' as the outcome variable in regression models, high BCS was a strong predictor of a non-cycling status. This study provides the first evidence that ovarian acyclicity in zoo African elephants is associated with body condition indicative of obesity, as well as elevated, perturbed biomarkers of metabolic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari A Morfeld
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Janine L Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
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Sullivan K, Kerr K, Wanty R, Amaral B, Olea-Popelka F, Valdes E. Dietary management, husbandry, and body weights of African elephants (Loxodonta africana) during successful pregnancies at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Zoo Biol 2016; 35:574-578. [PMID: 27455912 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy in African elephants is influenced by biological and environmental factors. For managed elephants many of these factors are set directly or indirectly by their human care takers, including nutrition and husbandry. While African elephants often struggle to conceive and produce healthy offspring under human care, Disney's Animal Kingdom (DAK) has effectively managed six gestations to fruition in three cows. Despite differences between mothers in terms of BW and growth curves during gravidity, each pregnancy successfully resulted in the birth of a healthy calf. Body weight (BW) gain during pregnancy ranged from 245 to 558 kg. Obesity in elephants is associated with increased occurrence of dystocia and mortality of the fetus and mother, hence understanding normal weight gains is an integral concept. Diet (dry matter basis) included high levels of fiber throughout pregnancies (60-70% neutral detergent fiber), vitamin E supplementation (116-214 mg/kg diet of alpha-tocopherol), as well as low levels of starch (2.5-5.1%) and crude fat (1.9-2.4%). Caretaker directed exercise during pregnancy at DAK served to prevent ventral edema, and increase muscle tone to prepare cows for parturition. Demonstrating techniques for effective care of pregnant females, as well as normal growth curves and fluctuations under ex situ conditions are necessary for future positive outcomes. Ensuring reproductive success through proper husbandry and nutrition are a key to long-term conservation of elephants. Zoo Biol. 35:574-578, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Sullivan
- Animals, Science, and the Environment, Disney's Animal Programs, Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
| | - Katherine Kerr
- Animals, Science, and the Environment, Disney's Animal Programs, Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, Florida.,Department of Animal Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Rachel Wanty
- Applied Veterinary Epidemiology (AVE) Research Group, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Bryan Amaral
- Animals, Science, and the Environment, Disney's Animal Programs, Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
| | - Francisco Olea-Popelka
- Applied Veterinary Epidemiology (AVE) Research Group, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Eduardo Valdes
- Animals, Science, and the Environment, Disney's Animal Programs, Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, Florida.,Department of Animal Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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Brown JL, Paris S, Prado-Oviedo NA, Meehan CL, Hogan JN, Morfeld KA, Carlstead K. Reproductive Health Assessment of Female Elephants in North American Zoos and Association of Husbandry Practices with Reproductive Dysfunction in African Elephants (Loxodonta africana). PLoS One 2016; 11:e0145673. [PMID: 27416141 PMCID: PMC4945061 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of a multi-institutional study of zoo elephant welfare, we evaluated female elephants managed by zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and applied epidemiological methods to determine what factors in the zoo environment are associated with reproductive problems, including ovarian acyclicity and hyperprolactinemia. Bi-weekly blood samples were collected from 95 African (Loxodonta africana) and 75 Asian (Elephas maximus) (8-55 years of age) elephants over a 12-month period for analysis of serum progestogens and prolactin. Females were categorized as normal cycling (regular 13- to 17-week cycles), irregular cycling (cycles longer or shorter than normal) or acyclic (baseline progestogens, <0.1 ng/ml throughout), and having Low/Normal (<14 or 18 ng/ml) or High (≥14 or 18 ng/ml) prolactin for Asian and African elephants, respectively. Rates of normal cycling, acyclicity and irregular cycling were 73.2, 22.5 and 4.2% for Asian, and 48.4, 37.9 and 13.7% for African elephants, respectively, all of which differed between species (P < 0.05). For African elephants, univariate assessment found that social isolation decreased and higher enrichment diversity increased the chance a female would cycle normally. The strongest multi-variable models included Age (positive) and Enrichment Diversity (negative) as important factors of acyclicity among African elephants. The Asian elephant data set was not robust enough to support multi-variable analyses of cyclicity status. Additionally, only 3% of Asian elephants were found to be hyperprolactinemic as compared to 28% of Africans, so predictive analyses of prolactin status were conducted on African elephants only. The strongest multi-variable model included Age (positive), Enrichment Diversity (negative), Alternate Feeding Methods (negative) and Social Group Contact (positive) as predictors of hyperprolactinemia. In summary, the incidence of ovarian cycle problems and hyperprolactinemia predominantly affects African elephants, and increases in social stability and feeding and enrichment diversity may have positive influences on hormone status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine L. Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Stephen Paris
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Natalia A. Prado-Oviedo
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| | | | | | - Kari A. Morfeld
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
- Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
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Edwards KL, Trotter J, Jones M, Brown JL, Steinmetz HW, Walker SL. Investigating temporary acyclicity in a captive group of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus): Relationship between management, adrenal activity and social factors. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 225:104-116. [PMID: 26393308 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Routine faecal steroid monitoring has been used to aid the management of five captive Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) females at Chester Zoo, UK, since 2007. Progestagen analysis initially revealed synchronised oestrous cycles among all females. However, a 14- to 20-week period of temporary acyclicity subsequently occurred in three females, following several management changes (increased training, foot-care and intermittent matriarch removal for health reasons) and the initiation of pregnancy in another female. The aim of this study was to retrospectively investigate whether these management changes were related to increased adrenal activity and disruption of ovarian activity, or whether social factors may have been involved in the temporary cessation of cyclicity. Faecal samples collected every other day were analysed to investigate whether glucocorticoid metabolites were related to reproductive status (pregnant, cycling, acyclic) or management (training, foot-care, matriarch presence). Routine training and foot-care were not associated with adrenal activity; however, intensive foot-care to treat an abscess in one female was associated with increased glucocorticoid concentration. Matriarch presence influenced adrenal activity in three females, being lower when the matriarch was separated from the group at night compared to being always present. However, in the females that exhibited temporary acyclicity, there was no consistent relationship between glucocorticoids and cyclicity state. Although the results of this study do not fully explain this occurrence, the highly synchronised nature of oestrous cycles within this group, and the concurrent acyclicity in three females, raises the question of whether social factors could have been involved in the temporary disruption of ovarian activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L Edwards
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Caughall Road, Upton-by-Chester CH2 1LH, UK; Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Species Survival, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA.
| | - Jessica Trotter
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Caughall Road, Upton-by-Chester CH2 1LH, UK; Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5G, UK
| | - Martin Jones
- Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5G, UK
| | - Janine L Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Species Survival, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Hanspeter W Steinmetz
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Caughall Road, Upton-by-Chester CH2 1LH, UK; Gebrüder Knie, Schweizer National-Circus AG, Oberseestrasse, 8640 Rapperswil, Switzerland
| | - Susan L Walker
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Caughall Road, Upton-by-Chester CH2 1LH, UK.
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RECURRENCE OF HYPERPROLACTINEMIA AND CONTINUATION OF OVARIAN ACYCLICITY IN CAPTIVE AFRICAN ELEPHANTS (LOXODONTA AFRICANA) TREATED WITH CABERGOLINE. J Zoo Wildl Med 2014; 45:569-76. [DOI: 10.1638/2013-0254r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Carlstead K, Mench JA, Meehan C, Brown JL. An epidemiological approach to welfare research in zoos: the Elephant Welfare Project. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2014; 16:319-37. [PMID: 24079487 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2013.827915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Multi-institutional studies of welfare have proven to be valuable in zoos but are hampered by limited sample sizes and difficulty in evaluating more than just a few welfare indicators. To more clearly understand how interactions of husbandry factors influence the interrelationships among welfare outcomes, epidemiological approaches are needed as well as multifactorial assessments of welfare. Many questions have been raised about the housing and care of elephants in zoos and whether their environmental and social needs are being met in a manner that promotes good welfare. This article describes the background and rationale for a large-scale study of elephant welfare in North American zoos funded by the (U.S.) Institute of Museum and Library Services. The goals of this project are to document the prevalence of positive and negative welfare states in 291 elephants exhibited in 72 Association of Zoos and Aquariums zoos and then determine the environmental, management, and husbandry factors that impact elephant welfare. This research is the largest scale nonhuman animal welfare project ever undertaken by the zoo community, and the scope of environmental variables and welfare outcomes measured is unprecedented.
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BILATERAL OVARIAN CYSTADENOMA IN A GERIATRIC AFRICAN ELEPHANT (LOXODONTA AFRICANA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2014; 45:406-9. [DOI: 10.1638/2013-0149r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Morfeld KA, Lehnhardt J, Alligood C, Bolling J, Brown JL. Development of a body condition scoring index for female African elephants validated by ultrasound measurements of subcutaneous fat. PLoS One 2014; 9:e93802. [PMID: 24718304 PMCID: PMC3981750 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0093802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity-related health and reproductive problems may be contributing to non-sustainability of zoo African elephant (Loxodonta africana) populations. However, a major constraint in screening for obesity in elephants is lack of a practical method to accurately assess body fat. Body condition scoring (BCS) is the assessment of subcutaneous fat stores based on visual evaluation and provides an immediate appraisal of the degree of obesity of an individual. The objective of this study was to develop a visual BCS index for female African elephants and validate it using ultrasound measures of subcutaneous fat. To develop the index, standardized photographs were collected from zoo (n = 50) and free-ranging (n = 57) female African elephants for identifying key body regions and skeletal features, which were then used to visually determine body fat deposition patterns. This information was used to develop a visual BCS method consisting of a list of body regions and the physical criteria for assigning an overall score on a 5-point scale, with 1 representing the lowest and 5 representing the highest levels of body fat. Results showed that as BCS increased, ultrasound measures of subcutaneous fat thickness also increased (P<0.01), indicating the scores closely coincide with physical measures of fat reserves. The BCS index proved to be reliable and repeatable based on high intra- and inter-assessor agreement across three assessors. In comparing photographs of wild vs. captive African elephants, the median BCS in the free-ranging individuals (BCS = 3, range 1-5) was lower (P<0.001) than that of the zoo population (BCS = 4, range 2-5). In sum, we have developed the first validated BCS index for African elephants. This tool can be used to examine which factors impact body condition in zoo and free-ranging elephants, providing valuable information on how it affects health and reproductive potential of individual elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari A. Morfeld
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Roya, Virginia, United States of America
| | - John Lehnhardt
- The National Elephant Center, Fellsmere, Florida, United States of America
| | | | - Jeff Bolling
- The National Elephant Center, Fellsmere, Florida, United States of America
| | - Janine L. Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Roya, Virginia, United States of America
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Fanson KV, Keeley T, Fanson BG. Cyclic changes in cortisol across the estrous cycle in parous and nulliparous Asian elephants. Endocr Connect 2014; 3:57-66. [PMID: 24623735 PMCID: PMC3987288 DOI: 10.1530/ec-14-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In the context of reproduction, glucocorticoids (GCs) are generally considered to have negative effects. However, in well-studied model species, GCs fluctuate predictability across the estrous cycles, and short-term increases promote healthy ovarian function. Reproductive challenges have plagued captive elephant populations, which are not currently self-sustaining. Efforts to understand reproductive dysfunction in elephants have focused on the suppressive effects of cortisol, but the potential permissive or stimulatory effects of cortisol are unknown. In this study, we provide a detailed examination of cortisol patterns across the estrous cycle in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). Time series analysis was used to analyze cortisol and progesterone data for a total of 73 cycles from eight females. We also compared cortisol profiles between females that successfully conceived and females that failed to conceive despite repeated mating attempts. Our results revealed that cortisol fluctuates predictably across the estrous cycle, with a peak during the second half of the follicular phase followed by low levels throughout the luteal phase. Furthermore, this pattern was significantly altered in nulliparous females; cortisol concentrations did not decline during the luteal phase to the same extent as in parous females. This study highlights the complexity of cortisol signaling and suggests future directions for understanding the role of cortisol in reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry V Fanson
- Wildlife Reproductive Centre, Taronga Conservation Society AustraliaDubbo, New South WalesAustralia
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3217Australia
- Correspondence should be addressed to K V Fanson
| | - Tamara Keeley
- Wildlife Reproductive Centre, Taronga Conservation Society AustraliaDubbo, New South WalesAustralia
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of QueenslandGatton, QueenslandAustralia
| | - Benjamin G Fanson
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3217Australia
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Comparative reproductive biology of elephants. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 753:135-69. [PMID: 25091910 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0820-2_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The ability to serially collect blood samples and conduct ultrasound examinations in Asian and African elephants has provided unique opportunities to study the biology of these endangered species. As a result, many unique aspects of elephant reproduction have been identified. For females, there are interesting differences in luteal steroidogenic activity, follicular maturation, pituitary gonadotropin secretion, fetal development and reproductive tract anatomy, while males exhibit the unique phenomenon of musth and an unusual reproductive anatomy (internal testes, ampullary semen storage). However, problems associated with uterine and ovarian pathologies hamper captive propagation efforts. Older, nulliparous cows are particularly susceptible, leading to speculation that continuous ovarian cyclicity of non-bred females in zoos is having a negative and cumulative effect on reproductive health. There are notable species differences in reproductive mechanisms as well (e.g., ovarian acyclicity, prolactin secretion, sperm cryosensitivity), implying that species-specific approaches to management and application of assisted reproductive techniques are needed for maximal reproductive efficiency and enhancement of genetic management.
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Penfold LM, Powell D, Traylor-Holzer K, Asa CS. “Use it or lose it”: Characterization, implications, and mitigation of female infertility in captive wildlife. Zoo Biol 2013; 33:20-8. [DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Revised: 11/10/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda M. Penfold
- South-East Zoo Alliance for Reproduction and Conservation; Yulee Florida
| | | | | | - Cheryl S. Asa
- AZA Wildlife Contraception Center; Saint Louis Zoo; St. Louis Missouri
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Prado-Oviedo NA, Malloy EJ, Deng X, Brown JL. Hyperprolactinemia is not associated with hyperestrogenism in noncycling African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 189:7-14. [PMID: 23623777 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
African elephants in US zoos are not reproducing at replacement levels. This is in part due to physiological problems, one of which is abnormal ovarian cyclicity that has been linked to increased prolactin secretion (hyperprolactinemia). A relationship between increased estrogen production (hyperestrogenism) and hyperprolactinemia has been found in other species. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if elevated prolactin was associated with increased estrogen concentrations in non-cycling African elephants. In cycling elephants (n=12), prolactin secretion followed a normal cyclic pattern, with higher concentrations observed during the follicular phase; overall mean concentration was ∼18ng/ml and baseline prolactin was ∼6ng/ml. Non-cycling females (n=18) were categorized into three groups: (1) low prolactin (<15ng/ml; n=3); (2) moderate hyperprolactinemia (16-30ng/ml; n=7); and marked hyperprolactinemia (>31ng/ml; n=8). Mean urinary estrogen conjugate concentrations ranged from 5.4 to 41.4ng/mg Crt, and were similar between normal cycling (15.4±1.5ng/mg Crt) and non-cycling, low prolactin elephants (18.4±7.3ng/mg Crt), but were lower in moderate (9.4±1.3ng/mg Crt) and marked hyperprolactinemic (9.8±1.1ng/mg Crt) groups (P<0.05). In conclusion, African elephants appear to be sensitive to alterations in prolactin production, with both low (e.g., a non-cycling pattern) and high prolactin secretion being associated with abnormal ovarian activity. However, hyperestrogenism was not related to hyperprolactinemia in the non-cycling females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia A Prado-Oviedo
- Department of Environmental Science and Public Policy, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA.
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Stansfield FJ, Nöthling JO, Allen WR. The progression of small-follicle reserves in the ovaries of wild African elephants (Loxodonta africana) from puberty to reproductive senescence. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:1165-73. [DOI: 10.1071/rd12296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine whether the follicle reserve in the ovary of the African elephant declines progressively after puberty and whether its depletion constrains the fertility of older females. Elephant ovaries were fixed in 4% neutral buffered formalin and small-follicle counts made using stereological protocols. Excepting a slight rise in small-follicle numbers between 16 and 25 years of age, there was a trend for follicle numbers to fall from puberty to 70 years. Reproductive status did not impact significantly on small-follicle numbers (P = 0.31). The number of early primary follicles, initially higher in number than true primary follicles, fell from post-puberty to nil at 45 years of age. Six of the seven oldest animals in the study showed signs of recent ovarian activity in the form of antral follicles, corpora lutea or large corpora nigra. The four oldest elephants (mean age 69 years) had a median small-follicle count of 11 113. In summary, it appears that the elephant ovary is capable of supplying oocytes for ovulation right up to the time of death at the age of maximum life expectancy, although the follicle reserve becomes depleted in some older elephants.
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25
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THITARAM C. Breeding Management of Captive Asian Elephant ( Elephas maximus) in Range Countries and Zoos. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.5686/jjzwm.17.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chatchote THITARAM
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University
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HILDEBRANDT TB, LUEDERS I, HERMES R, GOERITZ F, SARAGUSTY J. Anatomical, Physiological, Behavioral and Pathological Aspects of the Estrous Cycle in Elephants. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.5686/jjzwm.17.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B HILDEBRANDT
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research
| | - Imke LUEDERS
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research
| | - Robert HERMES
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research
| | - Frank GOERITZ
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research
| | - Joseph SARAGUSTY
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research
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Ghosal R, Kalaivanan N, Sukumar R, Seshagiri PB. Assessment of estrus cyclicity in the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) by measurement of fecal progesterone metabolite 5α-P-3OH, using a non-invasive assay. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2012; 175:100-8. [PMID: 22033222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2011.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2011] [Revised: 09/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive management of the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) is important for its conservation. To monitor its estrous cyclicity, we earlier used an indirect ELISA to show that levels of fecal progesterone (P(4))-metabolite (allopregnanolone: 5α-P-3OH) in semi-captive females sampled randomly positively correlated with serum P(4) levels [12]. In this longitudinal study (51 weeks), we measured levels of fecal 5α-P-3OH and serum P(4) in seven semi-captive female elephants. Females exhibited three types of hormonal profiles. Four females showed cyclical patterns of fecal 5α-P-3OH and serum P(4) typical of normal estrous cycles, two showed acyclic pattern while one showed high values indicative of a pregnant animal. Values for anestrous or follicular phases were ≤ 0.3 μg g(-1) (5α-P-3OH) and ≤ 0.3 ng mL(-1) (P(4)); for luteal phase 0.32-11.09 μg g(-1) (5α-P-3OH) and 0.32-1.48 ng mL(-1) (P(4)); for pregnancy 1.41-7.38 μg g(-1) (5α-P-3OH) and 0.39-1.6 ng mL(-1) (P(4)). A positive correlation (t = 8.8, p < 0.01, n = 321) between levels of fecal 5α-P-3OH and serum P(4) was observed. A random sample of 30 free-ranging female elephants showed fecal 5α-P-3OH values of 0.06-23.4 μg g(-1), indicating them to be in different stages of estrous cyclicity. This study is the first to assess the reproductive phases of female Asian elephants based on the correlative-patterns of both the fecal 5α-P-3OH and serum P(4) values over multiple estrous cycles. This has a potential application in the reproductive management and conservation of Asian elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratna Ghosal
- Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
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